I’m reading many features regarding breakout players this offseason, so, for my first post, i will put together my list of players less advertised:
DeAndre Daniels: this talented forward will have plenty of minutes to show his multiple talents. Last year he hasn’t lived up to the hype following his recruitment, but Connecticut was a disfunctional team from the start.This year Daniels should average 14-15 points with starting five minutes,and with his solid outside game he will spread the floor for his backcourt teammates,Napier and Boatright.
Devon Collier: this guy is one of the most underrated player in division one.He play within himself ,last year he has average of 13.1 points with 61% from the field. 63% from FT on a good amount of shots, five rebounds(2,5 O 2,7D)in 26,8 minutes.This year without NBA drafted Jared Cunningham he should take an heavier load on the offensive end. If he could duplicate his fg% from last season, with an expected improvement from the free throws line, he should average 17-18 points as an athletic comboforward also capable of guarding multiple positions, collecting steals and blocks.
Nick Faust: this guard was touted as a shooter before last season but in his freshman year he has showed a good all around game, collecting a good amount of rebounds, assist and steals. He shoot a 42% from 2 points and 27% from three, averaging only 8,9 points. Next season, with the departure of leading scorer Stoglin, Faust will be the focus of Maryland’s opponents, so it’s up to him the scoring load from the backcourt. If a frontcourt player between Ukrainian Len and Shaquille Cleare will provide some good offense, Faust could lead Maryland back to the NCAA tournament. With his size(6.5) as a comboguard with a well rounded game, he should be the target of many NBA scout next year.
C.J. Aiken: this junior from SaintJoseph’s is one of the best shotblockers returning for next season. At 6’9” with a long wingspan he is a terror for opposite players in the paint.Last season he swatted an average of 3.5 shots every night, while on offense he averaged 10.9 points with 66%from 2P and 30.5 from 3P.Next season his team should be a contender in the Atlantic Ten, returning almost everyone from last year.If he could put some muscles without losing quickness and agility,he could be on NBA radar because every team want an energizer shotblocker to throw off the bench.
Reggie Bullock: the last player on this list is the most hyped, but i choose to include him because i expect him to be a real force next season. Last year he was a good role playear, but with early entries in the draft from Marshall, Barnes and Henson, he should be the best player in a loaded backcourt (Hairston, Paige, Tokoto). Also a good rebounder for a wing, Bullock should average near 20 points with his accurate stroke and an improved athleticism. He is my top choice for breakout players for 2012/2013
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